What is ship launching airbags

Ship launching fenders, also known as marine airbags, help shipbuilders launch vessels or move heavy marine structures from land into water using air-filled rubber bags. Unlike traditional slide rails or dry docks, this method uses inflatable bags to roll the vessel into the sea—faster, safer, and at lower cost.

Many shipyards around the world now rely on this flexible solution, especially for mid-sized vessels, barges, and workboats.

How Do Ship Launching Fenders Work?

When shipbuilders place air lift bags under a ship’s hull and inflate them, the ship rolls forward and enters the water smoothly. These marine airbags consist of tough rubber and multiple layers of synthetic fiber, making them strong enough to lift and support thousands of tons.

Here’s how the process works:

• Workers position inflatable marine airbags under the ship’s keel.
• They connect an air compressor and begin inflating the bags.
• As the bags inflate, they lift the hull and allow it to roll forward.
• The ship glides into the water in a smooth, controlled motion.

This approach avoids the need for expensive launch ramps or permanent docks.

Why Choose Inflatable Marine Airbags Instead of Traditional Launching Methods?

Marine airbags give shipbuilders a flexible, reusable, and budget-friendly way to launch vessels without building dry docks. Whether you’re working in a remote coastal area or a small shipyard, this method simplifies your operations.

Some key benefits include:

• Mobility – Move and reuse the airbags at different sites.
• Cost savings – Avoid heavy investment in fixed infrastructure.
• Versatility – Launch, dock, or lift a variety of marine structures.
• Safety – Maintain control through gradual inflation and deflation.

Real-World Examples of Ship Launching Airbags

1. Fishing Boat Launch in Southeast Asia – A shipyard used 10 air lift bags to roll a 300-ton steel fishing boat into the sea, finishing the job in hours without permanent launch structures.
2. Barge Recovery Project in Europe – A salvage crew lifted a grounded barge using inflatable marine airbags and refloated it safely within two days.
3. Ship Maintenance in Africa – A small repair team used marine airbags to lift a tugboat ashore for hull inspections, eliminating the need for a floating dock.
4. The cargo ship in Shandong, China was launched – On June 6, 2012, a massive bulk cargo ship named “HEMING” was successfully launched using ship launching airbags from “Nanhai No.1.” This impressive vessel was a collaborative effort by Qingdao and a shipping group, and it was built by Kay Zhejiang Shipping Industrial Company Limited. The “HEMING” measures 224.8 meters in length, 34 meters in width, and has a depth of 18.5 meters, with a design draught of 10.50 meters. It boasts a powerful engine with 8705KW and has a total weight of 42,027 tons, with a net tonnage of 23,414 tons.

Types of Marine Airbags for Ship Launching

Different types of inflatable marine airbags suit different tasks, depending on load, size, and purpose. You can choose from:

• Launching airbags – Roll ships into the water.
• Salvage airbags – Refloat sunken or grounded vessels.
• Lifting airbags – Raise heavy marine structures or objects.

Each type uses similar materials but varies in size, pressure rating, and layer count.

People Also Ask

What are the benefits of ship launching fenders?

They lower costs, offer flexibility, and work without permanent launch systems.

How much weight can marine airbags lift?

Depending on size and build, these airbags can lift 50 to 1,00000+ tons.

Are inflatable marine airbags safe?

Yes. When professionals follow correct procedures, the airbags perform safely and reliably.

How long do ship launching airbags last?

With proper care, you can use high-quality airbags for 5 to 8 years or more.

How to Choose the Right Ship Launching Airbags

To find the right airbags for your project, match your ship’s weight, length, and launch site conditions with the airbag size and pressure rating. Make sure you:

• Choose the right diameter and working pressure.
• Work with trusted manufacturers who follow ISO standards.
• Select airbags with multiple protective layers for durability.

Don’t settle for cheap imitations—quality matters for both safety and long-term cost.

Final Thoughts

Ship launching fenders (marine airbags) offer a smarter, safer, and more flexible way to launch vessels than traditional methods. Whether you’re launching new builds or lifting vessels for maintenance, air lift bags can handle the job.

If you want expert advice or need a quote for marine airbags, reach out to our team today—we’re ready to help you get started.